‘Tin Tabernacles’19th Century corrugated iron chapels and churches, perhaps more commonl

‘Tin Tabernacles’

19th Century corrugated iron chapels and churches, perhaps more commonly known as ‘Tin Tabernacles,’ have often been viewed with contempt throughout their history. Described by William Morris in his 1890 SPAB technical pamphlet as ‘spreading like pestilence over the country,’ it is no surprise that very little research has been done into these abundant structures.

The earliest structures were ‘emigrant cottages,’ consisting of a wooden frame with corrugated cladding, produced by E. T. Bellhouse, and shipped to California during the Gold Rush of 1849.5 Bellhouse’s most famous iron building is perhaps his 1852 ballroom for Prince Albert at Balmoral, and he would later become a key producer of corrugated iron chapels.

The chapels became popular in the 1860s, especially amongst the non-conformists, who saw a surge in congregation numbers in the 19th Century. They were ordered flat pack from a variety of manufacturers catalogues and were usually erected by the congregation.

Keep your eyes peeled on your walks as these unassuming structures often go unnoticed.